Toyota Prius Owners Manual
Toyota hybrid system operating conditionFEATURES ON NEW TOYOTA VEHICLE / Toyota hybrid system / Toyota hybrid system operating condition
Basic operations are described below. Besides,Toyota hybrid system performs variouscontrols depending on the operatingcondition: The “Energy Monitor” screentells you which power is used currently.
When starting or backing up, etc., thevehicle runs on electric power from hybridbattery, because the gasoline engine efficiencyis low.
During normal driving, the vehicle runsmainly on gasoline power. However, theelectric motor, using electric power generatedby the gasoline engine, can supplementthe gasoline engine power.
The vehicle controls the optimum ratio ofthe gasoline and electric power to helpuse energy more efficiently.
When driving at full throttle, additionalelectric power is applied from the hybridbattery. Vehicle performance improves.
When decreasing speed or applying thebrakes, the turning force of the wheelsmakes the electric motor operate as agenerator and additional electricity isstored in the hybrid battery (regenerativebrake).
When stopping, the gasoline engine automaticallyshuts off.
Charging hybrid battery
When the hybrid battery power is insufficient,the gasoline engine charges the hybridbattery. The system always supplieselectricity at a constant level.
